Star Wars Ewok Voice Actor Richard Donat Dies Aged 84
Hollywood and the wider entertainment world are reflecting on the life of actor Richard Donat, who has passed away at the age of 84.
His family confirmed that the Canadian star died on March 28, bringing to a close a long and steady career across television, film, and animation.
Donat was widely known to science fiction fans for voicing Deej Warrick, the determined father of Wicket, in the animated Star Wars: Ewoks series, a role that earned him a place in pop culture history.
His passing also marks another moment of sadness for a family that has long been linked to acting. His brother, Peter Donat, known for his role as Fox Mulder’s father in The X-Files, passed away earlier from complications related to diabetes.
The family’s artistic legacy stretches even further back, as both brothers were nephews of acclaimed actor Robert Donat, remembered for his performance in The 39 Steps, whose life was also cut short at the age of 53.
According to the family, Richard is survived by his partner Maggie Thomas, his sons Owen and Morgan, and four grandchildren, Charlize, Nadia, Mira, and Taran, who were described as a central part of his life.
In a touching tribute, his family remembered him as more than a performer, describing him as someone who found joy in everyday life and close relationships.
Their message painted him as “a passionate gardener, a loving and supportive partner, a devoted father and an extremely proud grandfather,” adding simply, “He will be missed but his presence will always be with us. He was a good man.”
They also expressed gratitude to the staff at South Shore Regional Hospital, who cared for him during his final illness, and noted that donations could be made in his memory.
Beyond animation, Donat built a respected career on screen across Canada. He appeared in productions such as Emily of New Moon, where he played Dr. Burnley, and the comedy series Blackfly, in which he portrayed Colonel Boyle.
His film work included roles in Tomorrow Never Comes, My American Cousin, The Weight of Water, The Event, and Amelia. His performance in My American Cousin even earned him a Genie Award nomination.
Later in life, he reached a new generation of viewers through the supernatural series Haven, inspired by The Colorado Kid by Stephen King.
Filmed in Nova Scotia, a place Donat called home for many years, the project held personal meaning for him.
Reflecting on that chapter of his career, he once said, “I have always lived here and then this show comes along and suddenly your life is changed. It is quite extraordinary really.”
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